Wynne Evans' girlfriend 'standing by star' though 'very tough period' after Strictly sacking

Strictly star Wynne Evans is being comforted by his girlfriend Liz Brookes during what's been described as a " very tough period" following his removal from the Strictly tour. Contrary to rumors of their breakup, sources confirm the couple is very much together, with Liz providing substantial support.

Evans, 53, began courting events manager Brookes, 50, in early last year after his marriage ended. An insider shared: "Everyone is rallying around Wynne - Liz included. It's a very testing time and he is appreciative of all the love and support he is getting."

The Mirror recently reported fears over Evans's professional future, noting "He's in a bad way." Yet, despite a controversial joke at the Strictly Come Dancing tour that saw him axed, his friends are offering robust backing.

A close friend commented: "He has been a bit of an oaf and made a stupid mistake but does he deserve such hatred? He is a joker and he wants to play to the crowd.", reports the Mirror.

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Evans was caught on tape saying "spitroast" during a photo op with actor Jamie Borthwick, 30, and dancer Katya Jones, 35. The friend added: "Jamie is his mate and he was laughing and joking, and Katya plays along with the joke too. "It's just schoolboy comedy.

"He is more Jim Davidson than Peter Kay, and if anything, is more guilty of having a terrible sense of humour." A friend of the singer said: "It's too early to say his career is over - after all, his radio show has a huge following and he's very well-liked.

"Everyone is hoping he can find a way out of this difficult situation. " Initially, BBC bosses let Evans off with a warning, but as the backlash grew, they decided to remove him from the live dates. Evans apologised for his actions, stating: "I've agreed with the BBC that I'll take some time out from my radio show and the Strictly live tour, as well as my other public commitments, to prioritise my wellbeing.

"He continued: "I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused. Apologies to those I won't get to see at the remaining performances and I'm grateful to my fellow tour gang for all the support they have given me."

Evans had allegedly made a lewd comment about dancer and presenter Janette Manrara, 41. He initially apologised, saying: "My language was ­inappropriate and unacceptable for which I sincerely ­apologise. " However, this did not alleviate the pressure, and BBC bosses eventually decided to drop him from the tour.